The Texel guinea pig, also affectionately known as the ‘Shirley Temple’ because of its curly long coat, has got to be one of the cutest cavies around. If you’re new to the world of guinea pigs, there’s a chance you may not be familiar with this little cavy, but trust us, after reading this article, you’ll be as smitten as we are.
One of the more common questions we receive from our readers is ‘how big do guinea pigs get’? Seems like a pretty straightforward question with a simple answer, right? Well, it would be if there was such a thing as an average-sized guinea pig, but this isn’t the case.
When you think of a guinea pig, chances are it’s the American guinea pig you are picturing. With their short coat, solid build and bright intelligent eyes the American guinea pig may not be the most exotic looking cavy, But their laid back and friendly personalities mean they are still one of the most popular breeds as pets. Here’s everything you need to know about the American guinea pig and how to care for one as a pet.
Can guinea pigs swim? Yes, if they have to. But do they enjoy it? Absolutely not! Swimming is unnatural, stressful and potentially dangerous for your cavy. Let’s look at why.
Your guinea pig’s eyes can tell you a lot about its overall health. It’s normal for guinea pigs to have a milky discharge from the eyes, but red, runny or sore eyes could be a sign of guinea pig eye infection or more serious health issues. Knowing the signs and symptoms of common guinea pig eye infections from conjunctivitis to upper respiratory infections and dental issues will help you identify the problem and get the appropriate treatment fast.
Guinea pigs are social animals and much prefer not to live alone. So if you are planning to keep a couple of piggies together, or even house a whole herd good for you! But making a home for multiple cavies needs some careful planning. If you’re looking for a cage for two guinea pigs, or more, we’ve got all the information you need.
Never heard of a skinny pig? Well, you’re in for a real treat. These hairless cavies are proof that bald is definitely beautiful. And while they may fall short in the follicle department, they most definitely make up for it when it comes to their personalities!
on the whole, guinea pigs are clean little critters that regularly groom themselves. And while they may have a slight odour, they should never be overpowering or unpleasant. However, like other pets (and even people), cavies will start to give off a smell if they’re kept in dirty conditions and are fed the wrong foods.
As prey animals, cavies are natural worriers. After all, being on high alert is how they survive. Having said that, in the wild, guinea pigs can escape from stressful situations. But this isn’t the case for pet piggies. Exposed to constant stressors in their hutch, guinea pigs are prone to long term health issues. They are also at risk of hurting themselves in an attempt to get away from the perceived danger.
Did you know that just like humans, your guinea pig can’t make its own vitamin C? This means that in the same way, we need to get this essential vitamin from fruits, vegetables or a daily supplement, so can cavies. In this article, we’re talking about vitamin C and your guinea pig, from what problems a lack of vitamin C can cause, to ways you can include it in your piggy’s diet and everything in between.
Whether it’s work responsibilities for a day or two, a weekend away, or a week-long summer holiday, even the most responsible guinea pig owner needs to leave their cuddly cavy alone for an extended period. If you find yourself in this predicament, you’re probably wondering how long can a guinea pig be left alone?
We all know how important it is to have a first aid kit in your home, especially if you have smaller children that are accident-prone. But what about your pets? Do you have a guinea pig first aid kit? Having a well-stocked first-aid kit with all the essential supplies on hand can buy you extra time in an emergency: time to get your furry friend to the vet. It could save your guinea pig’s life.
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Bought a double hutch and run for our guinea pigs and they were super helpful. Little chocolate Freddo in one box and Harribo in the other for the kids to munch on while daddy built the hutch & run. Great communication / customer service, fab. products and they're lovely too. Highly recommended them!
I 1000% recommend home and roost, there hutches are very well made, the wood is thick and there super sturdy when together, I did have a few issues with a missing door and divider and also a few cracked parts however their customer service team are 5⭐️ and sorted everything for me the same day and sent new parts out I will defiantly be using again
Such a helpful man who went the extra mile to ensure that the carrier had precise instructions on where to leave the hedgehog house and food etc., as the recipient would be out. He was polite and eager to help.
Wow I’ve been blown away by the amazing service and quality of product with Home and Roost. I literally knew nothing and they were so helpful! Even told me how I could get a discount and generally made me feel like I was in an exciting journey and not just a customer! I especially loved the lollipop when I opened the packaging! Which was all all plastic free and that pleases me greatly too!! 👍👍👍👍
Great products, but what impressed me most was the speed at which I received them. Who expects an online order to arrive the following day (or early the day after that, my memory fails me)? Certainly not me, but sure enough there it was! Amazing service, thank you!
